Whitby recruit becomes Royal Navy Sailor

Trainee Engineering Technician Jem Dring, who is from Whitby, has completed his 10 week course at HMS Raleigh.

Published:16:00Monday 23 November 2015

Share this article

An 18-year-old from Whitby has completed his transformation from a civilian into a Royal Navy sailor.

During a 10-week course at HMS Raleigh, the Royal Navy’s training base in Cornwall, Trainee Engineering Technician Jem Dring was given a thorough induction into the service.

The course culminated with the passing-out parade attended by families and friends.

The former pupil of Prior Pursglove College said: “I decided I didn’t want to go to Uni and thought it would be a good idea to get a trade.

“I also like travelling and I thought joining the Royal Navy would give me the opportunity to do both of these things.

“I’m relieved to have completed the 10 weeks training.

“It’s been great meeting so many new people. The weapons training and navigating the river in our own small boats were my highlights of the course. I’m now looking forward to my trade training and joining the Fleet.”

With the first phase of his training Jem is heading for HMS Sultan in Hampshire.

There he will learn the skills in marine engineering to keep the ship running smoothly, safely and effectively.

Once fully qualified he will work on everything from the ship’s hull and engines to its electrical, fuel, hydraulic and fire fighting systems. As the ship will be away from port for weeks at a time, he’ll be trained to make spare parts and other vital components in the ship’s workshops.

Details of career opportunities within the Royal Navy are available online at www.royalnavy.mod.uk or by calling the Recruitment Line on 03456 00 53 02.